To determine whether a job you're considering will pay enough to meet your basic expenses start by researching the cost of living in your area. Once you understand the cost of living learn about salaries. Next, research jobs and employers in the region. Finally, you're ready to start planning your education. Find programs and courses that match the occupations you're interested in.

The tools below can help you understand how much it costs to live in Northwest Minnesota.

Cost of Living The Cost of Living data tool from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) calculates the basic needs cost of living, including child care, food, health care, housing transportation, and taxes. It allows you to view results by county, region, or statewide. The tool also gives you the option of a variety of family definitions, including one or two adults working either full-time or part-time, and up to four children.

The table below shows the cost of living in Northwest Minnesota for a typical family, considered to be a 3 person family with 2 adults working a combined 60 hours a week.

Reality Check Tool The Reality Check Tool allows you to compare lifestyle choices and salary. To build a budget for your desired lifestyle based on the cost of living in Northwest Minnesota select "Get a Reality Check" and choose either Bemidji or Moorhead as your city. You'll be able to build a budget by choosing from a variety of lifestyle options for housing, utilities, food, transportation, and more. At the end you'll see the Annual Salary needed to achieve your desired lifestyle and find potential occupations.

To find out which jobs will be available in the future check out Employment Outlook data for the Northwest region.

Job Vacancies

Twice a year, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development conducts a survey to identify the number and location of job vacancies. The survey also collects information about training requirements and starting wages offered by employers for those vacancies.

Use the Job Vacancy Survey Data Tool to view job vacancies. Select the Change Area button to filter the results for the Northwest Planning Region.

When comparing these occupations you should also consider job quality. Low wage occupations are more likely to be affected by high turnover. This may be the reason why they have so many openings. Some occupations are highly seasonal. The demand for these types of jobs drops in the fall and picks up again in the spring. Some openings are mainly part time and temporary. Consider all of these factors when selecting an occupation to research.

Plan Your Education in Northwest Minnesota

Find an Apprenticeship Sponsor in Northwest Minnesota

Apprenticeship programs are a good way to start a rewarding career. You can earn a salary while gaining marketable skills. In Minnesota, there are two types of state-approved apprenticeship programs. Registered apprenticeships are for Minnesotans age 16 and older. Youth apprenticeships are for high school juniors and seniors.